Tuesday, March 18, 2014

What you MUST eat in Europe

When traveling around Europe, food is like sight seeing. Everywhere you go, it is mandatory to try the local cuisine or "best" item on the menu. European countries are all known for specific food items, and if you don't try these, you probably should not have even visited.

Italy is clearly known for it's savory pasta, paninis' and pizza; however, it is rare to order anything without prosciutto on top. Prosciutto is a dry, salty, and thinly sliced cured ham found in many Italian dishes, and serves as Italy's normal sandwich meat. All over Italy there are whole in the wall restaurants where anyone can quickly grab a caprese panini; prosciutto, tomato, mozzarella, basil and some olive oil, pressed together between two toasted pieces of fresh bread. If this doesn't get your mouth watering, you can always stick to pizza or pasta, you certainly will not be disappointed!

Spain has a unique twist on what Americans would define as a tortilla. Their traditional dish Tortilla con Patata is a dense but fluffy looking dish that is served either as a whole, or as a pie slice for a tapa. This appetizer is made up of potatoes and eggs, however some restaurants add peppers, vegetables or meat to the mixture, just for some extra flavor.

German Bratwurst with spicy mustard is the key to a successful trip to Germany. In Berlin, venders with stoves attached to a rope around their neck are found all over the city, selling fresh brats to anyone walking by. The bratwurst are always longer than the bun, and though it looks a little funny, you will be happy since the deliciousness sits in the dog, not the bread.


Lastly, when thinking about what the Dutch like to eat, nothing really comes to mind, until you visit Amsterdam and discover their dessert waffles. Whether you want frosting, fruit, ice cream, sprinkles, or chocolate syrup, anything is possible. Many of these waffle joints are open 24 hours, which is perfect to satisfy any sweet late night cravings. Though I am sure there are many other savory food options in Holland, the waffles are certainly something to try.

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